Did you know that sapphires exist in almost every colour of the rainbow?
When the word “sapphire” is used alone it refers to BLUE sapphire.
Any colour other than blue falls into the “fancy” sapphire category and is called by its colour, eg. purple sapphire, green sapphire, blue-green sapphire etc.
Let's take a look at some fun facts about these wonderful gems:
The word sapphire come from Latin and Greek words for “blue”
Some believe that sapphires protect their wearer from evil
Sapphires in all colours are a part of the “corundum” family (red corundum is called a ruby)
Sapphires are often associated with royalty
The most famous sapphire is considered to be Princess Diana's 12 carat oval sapphire engagement ring. It is now worn by Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge
Napoleon gave Josephine this sapphire and diamond toi et moi engagement ring in 1796 (featured below). In 2013, it was sold at an auction for almost $1million
Padparadscha (“Pad-pa-rad-sha”) is considered the most rare variety of fancy sapphire and is the centre stone in Princess Eugenie’s engagement ring. Padparadscha shows a unique combination of pinkish orange to orange-pink colour and is named after a lotus flower
This Tsarina Gems Anastasia Ring featuring a Padparadscha sapphire is sure to make you feel like royalty!
This one-of-a-kind ring is available for purchase from our Ready-to-Wear collection.
To schedule a viewing, please get in touch via: info@tsarinagems.com
Fancy popping the question with a pop of colour?
Visit my previous blog post here to find out if a coloured gemstone ring is right for you
What is the most popular sapphire shape?
Although sapphires of all colours are cut into a variety of shapes, the shape of a rough sapphire crystal influences the finished stone’s shape and size.
As the rough crystal is elongated, sapphires are typically cut into elongated shapes such as oval and cushions to save as much weight as possible.
The process of cutting sapphires into round shapes loses the most weight, which is why large round stones are very rare.
Pro Tip: If you are on a hunt for a sapphire larger than 1 carat, you will have more options available in shapes like ovals and elongated cushions rather than rounds.
Sapphire Clarity
As most natural gemstones, sapphires typically have some inclusions. Regardless of their colour, common sapphire inclusions are crystals, needles, fingerprints and colour zoning.
Although when it comes to diamonds, inclusions are often seen as a negative feature, when selecting a coloured gemstone such as a sapphire, it is the colour that plays a more important role.
This green sapphire shows a stunning colour and a variety of unique inclusions.
Concerned about inclusions in your gemstone?
Check out my previous blog post Let's get some clarity on gemstone inclusions
Source
Sri Lanka is a major source of blue sapphires, fancy sapphires as well as rubies. No wonder it is known as the “island of gems”.
Other sources of fancy sapphires around the world include Madagascar, Tanzania, Kenya, Thailand, Vietnam and USA.
Blue-green or teal sapphires from Montana have become extremely popular in the last couple of years, although they are also mined in other sources around the world.
This stunning blue-green sapphire was ethically sourced in Madagascar.
Treatment
Heat treatment is an industry standard. In fact, almost 99% of sapphires are heat treated to enhance and stabilise the colour, it is a permanent process. Non-treated sapphires are more rare and difficult to find, typically they are also more expensive.
As most sapphires undergo heat treatment, do not be surprised if you do not see a mention of it in your appraisal or grading report. Typically, appraisals and grading reports will only state “no indication of heating” in case of unheated stones.
This unique blue-green sapphire in Tsarina Gems Serena Ring has not undergone treatment and is stated as so on the third-party appraisal.
This one-of-a-kind ring is available for purchase from our Ready-to-Wear collection.
To schedule a viewing, please get in touch via: info@tsarinagems.com
September Birthstone
Sapphire is also known for the following traits:
the wisdom stone, stimulates concentration and promotes depth of thought
grants serenity and patience
decreases mental fatigue and mental tension
a reminder that when you seek with a true heart, you will discover spiritual treasures
Do you know what powers and qualities your birthstone holds?
Visit my previous post titled Beauty and Power to find out!
Durability
In terms of hardness, sapphire scores a 9 out of 10 on Moh's scale.
The only harder material is a diamond at 10.
Due to their hardness, sapphires in any colour are a spectacular choice for an engagement ring that will withstand everyday wear.
Shopping for an engagement ring?
Check out these previous blog posts to help you choose the perfect one!
With a wide variety of colours available, sapphires are among the most exciting gems to add to your collection.
Is a sapphire on your wishlist?
I would be delighted to hear about it!
To discuss your options, schedule a complementary, 30 minute connection call with me here
Visit Tsarina Gems Instagram page for more stunning jewellery ideas and styling tips